A true gem of a cigar, the Bauza is sure to meet all of your expectations. They are made in the Dominican Republic and were originally released in 1980. They have stood the test of time. It is not only an excellent cigar, but they are made in the prestigious Fuente Factory. That should tell you all you need to know about this cigar. The Fuente Factory is known for making some of the highest quality cigars and the Buaza is no exception.
I’ve chosen to smoke the Casa Grande size for this review; it is a 6.75”x48 ring gauge. However, it’s available in eight different sizes to fit your preferred choice of ring gauge. It’s semi dark Sun Grown Ecuadorian wrapper looks fantastic. You will notice some small veining, but nothing that takes away from the look of the cigar. An oily sheen along with a triple cap completes the presentation.
Right away, you will notice hay like notes as you toast the end of the cigar and begin smoking the first inch or so. After you get past the initial start of the cigar, the hay starts to subside and cedar and spice tones begin taking over. Ten minutes in and the burn has be spot on. The draw on the cigar is one of the best that I’ve had in a long time. It requires just enough effort to keep it interesting.
A third of the way in, I’ve begun to get a touch of plum like notes that lasted for several minutes. It quickly disappears and the cedar and spice tones are back in full force. The burn to this point has been impeccable. I wanted to test the cigar further and decided to set it down for five minutes to see how it would do. To my surprise, when I returned the cigar remained lit and I didn’t have to touch it up.
Two thirds of the way in now and hints of coffee, nutmeg and nuts are all evident. Smooth creamy notes can also be found. As mentioned prior, the burn and draw have remained consistent with no issues so far. In the final third of the cigar, everything begins culminating and you will get hints of all the flavors and notes mentioned throughout the cigar. I tasted a nice cedar like aftertaste on my palette that enhanced the smoking experience.
The Buaza is an overall winner for sure. It has received a 92 rating from Cigar Aficionado. Also, it’s one of Carlos Fuente Sr.’s favorite cigars and can be found sitting on his table in his office. I would recommend that you go buy a few and try it out for yourself. You will not be disappointed.
